Working aloft or overside means a work being performed at a height and involves risk of falling, resulting in an injury. Generally, personnel should not be permitted to work overside when the vessel is underway unless it is necessary and as determined by the Master.

Permits are a means of communication between those who carry out the work, the person responsible for their safety and someone who could introduce a hazard if they were unaware the work was taking place. It can also coordinate different work activities to avoid conflicts.

The US Coast Guard’s Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance announced the release of the U.S. Port State Control Annual Report for 2022. USCG reported that the total number of ships detained in 2022 for environmental protection, safety, and security related deficiencies increased from 63 to 78.

SAFETY4SEA announced the winners of the 2023 GREEN4SEA Virtual Awards on April 19th, recognizing industry’s outstanding practices for Sustainability, Clean Shipping, Initiative, Technology, Tanker Operator, Dry Bulk Operator and Personality.

A prohibition on the use and carriage of heavy fuel oil as fuels in Arctic waters will come into effect in 2024, as part of amendments to MARPOL Annex I, MEPC.329(76), which entered into force on 1 November 2022.

Electrical Energy on board ships can be hazardous. Machinery, equipment, and systems found aboard a ship differ substantially from those found in landside facilities of general industry.

Burning and welding are among activities most likely to produce fire on board. Many fire incidents have resulted from the ignition of combustible materials or the ignition of structures or debris near the hot work area. However, these activities can be performed safely, if proper precautions are taken both before and during such work.

Technology company ZeroNorth has today announced it is now partnering with the Global Maritime Forum and is a Mission Ambassador for Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping. 

Veson Nautical (Veson) has announced its intent to acquire vessel valuation provider VesselsValue. The move will add a proprietary data set and unique modelling capabilities to Veson, while bringing onboard a team dedicated to the maritime industry.

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has published a practical guide for seafarers, titled 'International Medical Guide for Seafarers and Fishers', in collaboration with the International Maritime Health Association (IMHA) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF).